Consumer News... For You! The OUCC's July 2019 Newsletter

State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 07/08/2019 10:23 AM EDT

JULY 2019

DUKE ENERGY RATES

The state’s largest electric utility is seeking a $395 million rate increase in its first base rate case in more than 15 years. The OUCC will file testimony later this year. In the meantime, the agency’s attorneys and technical experts will closely examine Duke Energy’s request. A schedule of hearing and filing dates will be set within the next few weeks. Updates will be posted on the OUCC’s website.

I&M PUBLIC HEARINGS

The IURC has scheduled 3 public field hearings in the Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) rate case: July 11 in South Bend, July 15 in Muncie, and July 16 in Ft. Wayne. I&M customers will have the opportunity to speak directly to the Commission for the case record. The OUCC is also inviting written consumer comments through August 13.

The IURC evidentiary hearing in the NIPSCO electric rate case is scheduled to start on July 25.

OUR ENERGY FUTURE

Governor Eric J. Holcomb has appointed Utility Consumer Counselor Bill Fine to serve on Indiana’s 21st Century Energy Policy Task Force. The 15-member task force was created by the General Assembly this spring and will work over the next year-and-a-half to develop policy recommendations. The task force will address a wide range of complex technical, economic, environmental, and legal issues, as Indiana and the nation experience a major transition in how electricity is produced and delivered to consumers. In addition to the task force’s work, the IURC will conduct a comprehensive statewide study on changes in generating fuel sources and new technologies.

WORKING WITH OUR PEERS

Several OUCC staff members participated in the National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates’ (NASUCA’s) June mid-year meeting in Portland, Ore. Margaret Stull (pictured) chairs NASUCA’s Tax and Accounting Committee, and participated in a panel discussion on water/wastewater ratemaking laws in various states. NASUCA’s members include utility consumer advocate agencies and organizations in 43 states and the District of Columbia.

SUMMER SAVINGS

We all think about our air conditioners in the summer. But the water heater is another big energy user, and yours may be working harder than it needs to. Many water heaters are set at 130 or 140 degrees. By lowering the thermostat to 120, you’ll save money and still have the hot water you need.

OUR MISSION

To represent all Indiana consumers to ensure quality, reliable utility services at the most reasonable prices possible through dedicated advocacy, consumer education, and creative problem solving.